Bookkeepers look after the accounts of an organization. They are responsible for recording all transactions and posting debits and credits. There are several degrees and certificate programs that help students acquire the abilities that are required in a career as a bookkeeper. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that jobs for bookkeeper are projected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations from 2012 to 2022.
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The ones who are already into the field of accounting and seek to improve their career prospects can work towards earning a bookkeeping certification.
Bookkeeping Certification Online
Bookkeeping certification is offered by both traditional and online schools. Most of the schools that offer certification in bookkeeping have the online option as well. The online certification can be useful for those who want to, maintain a balance between their personal and professional lives. They allow students to study from any location and earn a certification without leaving their homes or offices.
A Bookkeeping certification helps students and working professionals qualify for advanced positions in accounting. It allows candidates to acquire advanced knowledge and skills that would help them improve their career prospects. By getting a bookkeeping certification, candidates will be able to gain the title of a certified bookkeeper.
There are 2 major organizations that offer certification in bookkeeping. These include the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers and the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers. Both the NACPB and the AIPB are respected and can help students earn a certification for gaining an edge in a competitive job market.
Students who want to pursue NACPB certification can study at their own pace but the AIPB require candidates to complete four exams of which two must be taken at AIPB testing centers.
Requirements for Bookkeeping Certification Online
Candidates who want to be recognized by the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers need to pass the Uniform Certified Public Bookkeeper Examination and have at least one year of experience in accounting or bookkeeping. In addition, they need to earn 24 hours of certified professional education a year and submit the CPB application for licensure.
The American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers, on the other hand, requires students to have 2 years work experience and pass a 4-part examination. Additionally, candidates will be required to sign the AIPB Code of Ethics.
Career Outlook
Certified bookkeepers can find work opportunities in a number of settings as almost all kinds of organizations and companies need the services of bookkeepers. The income of bookkeepers may vary by the location, qualification and experience. As of 2014, the median annual wage for bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks was $36,430 (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Bookkeepers can find employment opportunities in professional, scientific, and technical services as well as finance and insurance. Health care, social assistance and retail trade are some other industries that require professionals with expertise in bookkeeping.
Bookkeepers generally work full time. Some may work longer hours in order to meet deadlines during times of filing taxes and at the end of the fiscal year.